India completed the biggest Test victory in their history with a crushing innings and 300 run success over Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, as debutant spinner Manav Suthar delivered a memorable performance with the ball.
Entering the third day firmly in control, India needed only a final push to wrap up the contest. Afghanistan resumed their first innings under pressure, and Suthar quickly took charge. Displaying excellent control, variation, and sharp turn, the young left arm spinner dismantled the visitors’ batting line up to finish with outstanding figures of 6 for 33. His effort ranks among the finest bowling returns by an Indian on Test debut.
Afghanistan were dismissed for 152 in their first innings, prompting India to enforce the follow on with a massive lead of 412 runs. Although the Afghan batters attempted a more positive approach in their second outing, the gap was simply too large to overcome.
Sediqullah Atal showed intent by taking on the Indian spinners and contributed 42 runs. However, India maintained control throughout the innings. Earlier, Rahmat Shah had fought hard with a determined half century, reaching fifty from 100 deliveries before becoming one of Suthar’s key victims.
Prasidh Krishna also made valuable contributions with the new ball. His disciplined pace bowling troubled the batters and helped create early breakthroughs. Mohammed Siraj chipped in with tight overs, while India’s spin department continued to apply pressure despite the pitch becoming less responsive as the match progressed.
Washington Sundar emerged as the standout performer in Afghanistan’s second innings. Instead of relying on sharp turn, he used drift and accuracy to great effect, claiming 4 for 36. His consistent line forced mistakes from several batters who tried to attack their way out of trouble.
Kuldeep Yadav, although not at his most threatening, remained patient and was rewarded when Afghanistan’s aggressive stroke play resulted in crucial wickets. Several batters lost their wickets attempting expansive shots as India tightened their grip on the match.
After tea, Afghanistan’s lower order looked intent on scoring quickly, but the risks only accelerated the inevitable outcome. Suthar added another wicket, while the remaining dismissals came through mistimed attacking strokes.
The final wicket confirmed an emphatic Indian victory and marked a dream start to Suthar’s Test career. His six wicket haul, combined with strong support from Washington Sundar and the rest of the bowling attack, ensured India finished the one off Test in commanding fashion and etched their name into the record books with their largest ever Test win.
